West Orange – Law enforcement authorities today posted a cash reward for information that leads to the arrest of a suspect wanted for a series of strong armed robberies in the township.

Sheriff Armando Fontoura stated that the Crimestoppers program will pay up to $2000 for details of the suspect’s whereabouts.

Fontoura said the most recent incident occurred at 11:30 p.m. on Friday, January 2nd. The victim had just parked her car and was walking to Cecil’s Jazz Club and Restaurant, located at 364 Valley Road, when the suspect approached her from behind. The suspect grabbed the woman’s purse, struck her in the face with a closed fist, knocking her to the ground, and kicked her several times.

The suspect, described as a 6’ 1”, 240 pound, African – American male between the ages of 35 to 40, was observed leaving the scene in a dark colored vehicle, possibly a Dodge.

The suspect is believed to be responsible for similar robberies in West Orange, Orange, Montclair and South Orange. The majority of the victims were attacked as they were exiting their vehicles in parking lots and garages. The victims range in age from 42 to 89 years. In three of the attacks, it was necessary to treat the victims’ injuries at local hospitals.

Persons with information about the crimes should contact the West Orange Police Department at 973-325-4000 or the Essex County Sheriff’s Crimestoppers hotline at 973-877-TIPS.